CVE-2014-2323 in lighttpd
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in mod_mysql_vhost.c in lighttpd before 1.4.35 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the host name, related to request_check_hostname.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/08/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-2323 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the lighttpd web server software, specifically within the mod_mysql_vhost module. This issue affects versions prior to 1.4.35 and exposes the system to remote code execution through maliciously crafted host name parameters. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the request_check_hostname function, which processes host header information without adequate sanitization. When lighttpd is configured to use MySQL for virtual host resolution, attackers can manipulate the host name parameter to inject malicious SQL commands that get executed against the underlying database. This flaw directly maps to CWE-89, which classifies SQL injection vulnerabilities as a serious weakness in software applications where untrusted data is incorporated into SQL queries without proper escaping or parameterization. The vulnerability exists in the context of web server configuration where database-backed virtual host management is implemented, creating a pathway for attackers to bypass normal authentication mechanisms and execute arbitrary database operations.
The technical exploitation of CVE-2014-2323 occurs when an attacker sends a specially crafted HTTP request containing a malicious host header value that contains SQL injection payload. The mod_mysql_vhost.c module processes this input directly within SQL query construction without proper input filtering or parameterization techniques. This allows attackers to manipulate the database queries executed by lighttpd, potentially gaining unauthorized access to database contents, modifying or deleting data, or even escalating privileges within the database environment. The vulnerability's impact is amplified because it operates at the web server level where database credentials are typically stored with elevated privileges. Attackers can leverage this weakness to perform unauthorized database operations including but not limited to data exfiltration, privilege escalation, or complete database compromise. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it requires no prior authentication and can be executed remotely, making it a prime target for automated exploitation tools commonly found in the attacker's toolkit.
From an operational perspective, the exploitation of CVE-2014-2323 can result in severe consequences for organizations running affected lighttpd versions. The vulnerability enables attackers to gain unauthorized access to virtual host configuration data stored in MySQL databases, potentially exposing sensitive information about server infrastructure, user accounts, or application configurations. This breach can lead to further lateral movement within the network as attackers use the compromised database information to discover additional attack vectors. The vulnerability's classification under ATT&CK technique T1071.004 indicates its potential use in application layer protocol manipulation, while T1046 represents the network service exploitation that occurs when attackers target the web server functionality. Organizations may experience data loss, service disruption, and compliance violations when this vulnerability is successfully exploited. The attack can also result in the complete compromise of the web server's virtual hosting capabilities, allowing attackers to redirect traffic or manipulate responses to legitimate users.
Organizations should immediately implement several mitigation strategies to address CVE-2014-2323. The primary recommendation involves upgrading to lighttpd version 1.4.35 or later, which contains the necessary patches to prevent SQL injection in the mod_mysql_vhost module. Additionally, administrators should consider disabling the mod_mysql_vhost module if it is not essential for their web server configuration, reducing the attack surface. Input validation and sanitization measures should be implemented at the application level, ensuring that all host header values are properly escaped before database processing. Network segmentation and firewall rules can help limit access to the vulnerable web server, while intrusion detection systems should be configured to monitor for suspicious host header patterns. The implementation of web application firewalls can provide additional protection layers against SQL injection attempts. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify any other potentially affected components within the web server infrastructure. Organizations should also review their database access controls and implement principle of least privilege to minimize the damage that could occur if the vulnerability is successfully exploited. The vulnerability's remediation aligns with industry best practices for secure coding and configuration management, emphasizing the importance of proper input validation and secure database interaction patterns.